These Cinnamon Roll Bars taste just like your favorite cinnamon roll slathered in vanilla-cinnamon cream cheese frosting, but bake up in a fraction of the time!
Preheat oven to 350° F. Line an 8"x 8" pan with foil that overhangs the sides (so you can use as a handle to remove the bars later). Grease the foil and the pan. Set aside.
In a small bowl, combine the dry ingredients (flour, cinnamon, and salt). Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Scrape mixture into the prepared pan.
Press the mixture evenly into the pan with damp fingertips. Bake 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow bars to cool completely on a wire rack.
For Frosting
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine cream cheese and butter. Beat until thoroughly combined and smooth.
Add vanilla bean paste (see note) and cinnamon. Mix to combine.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and beat until smooth. Pipe or spread frosting on top of cooled bars, adding sprinkles if you desire. The bars should be stored in the refrigerator. In an airtight container, the they'll keep for up to a week.Enjoy!
Notes
Note on pan: I used an 8" square pan for this recipe. You can also double the recipe and make it in a 9"x13" pan. The bake time was the same (22 minutes) for a double batch for me, but check to ensure it doesn't need a few extra minutes.Note on vanilla bean paste: You know I can't help myself when it comes to vanilla bean paste! It has fantastic flavor, and leaves gorgeous flecks of vanilla in the frosting. If you prefer to substitute, just add vanilla extract instead.